Research

18 pages, 400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development, Validation, and Utilization of a Social Media Use and Mental Health Questionnaire among Middle Eastern and Western Adults: A Pilot Study from the UAE

by Omar Hegazi, Samer Alalalmeh, Ahmad Alfaresi, Soheil Dashtinezhad, Ahmed Bahada, Moyad Shahwan, Ammar Abdulrahman Jairoun, Tesleem K. Babalola and Haya Yasin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316063 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3119

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to develop and validate a mental health stigma measurement tool for use within the social media context, utilizing the tool to assess whether the stigma shown in face-to-face interactions translates to social media, coupled with comparing whether social media use [...] Read more.

Objectives: We aimed to develop and validate a mental health stigma measurement tool for use within the social media context, utilizing the tool to assess whether the stigma shown in face-to-face interactions translates to social media, coupled with comparing whether social media use can cause the stigma among a sample of Middle Eastern and Western populations. Methods: The development and validation phase comprised a systematic process that was used to develop an assessment tool that could be used within the social media context and establish its validity and reliability. A 5-point Likert-type scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree) was developed to assess mental health stigma. The anonymous questionnaire was distributed from June 2022 to August 2022 on various social media platforms and groups predominated by the two demographics of interest, enrolling 1328 participants (with only 1001 responses deemed valid). The utilization phase consisted of bivariate and multivariable analysis of the data. The cutoff points for low, medium, and high scores were the 25th, 50th, and 75th percentil, respectively. Results: The instrument comprised three dimensions: acceptance, intolerance, and digital care sentiment. In the Middle Eastern subset of participants, a higher score of intolerance (more stigma) toward mental illness was found in 72.4% of the participants, with a higher score of acceptance being 35.1% and of digital care sentiment being 46.4%. The mean scores for all the scales were as follows: intolerance (3.08 ± 0.64), acceptance (3.87 ± 0.71), and digital care sentiment (3.18 ± 0.69). For Westerners, a higher score of intolerance toward mental illness was found in 24.0% of the participants, with a higher score of acceptance being 56.8% and of digital care sentiment being 38.2%. The mean scores for all the scales were as follows: intolerance (2.28 ± 0.73), acceptance (4.21 ± 0.61), and digital care sentiment (3.08 ± 0.62). Various results were obtained regarding the effect of individual social media platforms on the different subscales. Conclusions: Stigma does follow people on social media, whether they are Middle Easterners or Westerners, although to varying degrees. The results of social media interaction and activity varied based on the group that used them, with some having an impact on one group but not the other. For these reasons, proper guidance is advised when utilizing and interacting with social media platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

11 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Functionalistic Stress Recovery Intervention Improves Perceived Recovery Opportunities and Relaxational Behaviors: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

by Niclas Almén

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14005; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114005 - 27 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1431

Abstract

The recovery perspective on stress management is new and few recovery intervention studies have been conducted. The aim of the study was to evaluate behavioral effects of a functionalistic stress recovery intervention, in which individuals perceiving high levels of stress were encouraged to [...] Read more.

The recovery perspective on stress management is new and few recovery intervention studies have been conducted. The aim of the study was to evaluate behavioral effects of a functionalistic stress recovery intervention, in which individuals perceiving high levels of stress were encouraged to pay attention to possibilities to perform potential recovery behaviors in everyday life and to choose behaviors that were predicted to lead to resource restoration. Seventy-three individuals were randomly allocated to either a 10-week intervention or a waiting-list control group. Three types of recovery behavior factors during leisure time were studied: perceived recovery opportunities (i.e., control), relaxational behaviors (i.e., relaxation), and positively challenging behaviors (i.e., mastery). In comparison with the control group, the intervention group significantly improved, showing high between-group effect sizes, regarding perceived recovery opportunities (p < 0.001; d = 0.75) and relaxational behaviors (p < 0.001; d = 0.80). Both groups normalized their levels of positively challenging behaviors between pre- and postassessment, and no statistically significant group difference was demonstrated. Analyses of reliable and clinically significant changes demonstrated results in favor of the intervention group regarding perceived recovery opportunities and relaxational behaviors but not positively challenging behaviors. The tested intervention warrants further research, for example, if a modified version of the intervention including components aiming at increasing postwork positively challenging behaviors would be beneficial for the improvement of the behavior and for health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

13 pages, 355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Religious and Non-Religious Workplace Mobbing Victims: When Do People Turn to Religious Organisations?

by Jolita Vveinhardt and Mykolas Deikus

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912356 - 28 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1129

Abstract

Researchers’ interest in the impact of religious–spiritual assistance on victims of violence has increased in recent decades; however, factors that are relevant to workplace mobbing victims who seek such assistance remain poorly investigated. The purpose of this study is to highlight the factors [...] Read more.

Researchers’ interest in the impact of religious–spiritual assistance on victims of violence has increased in recent decades; however, factors that are relevant to workplace mobbing victims who seek such assistance remain poorly investigated. The purpose of this study is to highlight the factors that make spiritual assistance of religious organizations acceptable to religious and non-religious workplace mobbing victims. The study involved 463 adults working in Lithuanian organizations, of whom 79.5 per cent indicated that they were religious. ANOVA and Chi-square tests revealed that the significant factors were similarity of personal and religious values, the relation with the person providing assistance, and the circumstances characterising assistance. This study promotes further scientific discussion on the involvement of religious organizations in helping victims of workplace mobbing and explains why religious and non-religious individuals seeking assistance turn to religious organizations. The article presents only a part of the research results of the implemented project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

16 pages, 378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Stress Is Related to Age, Education, Physical Activity, Body Mass Index, and Body Fat Percentage in Adult Polish Men?

by Monika Lopuszanska-Dawid, Przemysław Kupis, Anna Lipowicz, Halina Kołodziej and Alicja Szklarska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12149; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912149 - 25 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1956

Abstract

Stressful events and chronic tension are considered a burden and a threat to physical, mental, and social health. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the associations of variation in stress exposure with social factors, physical activity, basic components of physical fitness, [...] Read more.

Stressful events and chronic tension are considered a burden and a threat to physical, mental, and social health. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the associations of variation in stress exposure with social factors, physical activity, basic components of physical fitness, body mass index (BMI) and percentage of body fat (BFP). An additional objective was to identify the main BFP modifiers among those analyzed. The material consisted of data of ethnically homogeneous group 355 men (32–87 yrs), invited to the study as part of the Wroclaw Male Study research project. The analyzed features included socioeconomic status (age, educational level), elements of lifestyle (physical activity), major and most important stressful life events—Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS) and basic parameters of the somatic structure of the body (BMI, BFP). Statistical analyses included: chi-square test, Mann–Whitney U test and backward stepwise regression (significance level α = 0.05). Stress exposure showed significant socioeconomic variation among the adult Poles studied. Higher levels of education were associated with higher levels of stress. Significant correlations between SRRS and physical activity were found, especially in men older than 60 years and with higher levels of education. A positive relationship was shown between SRRS and BFP, especially in men under 60 years of age. BFP appeared to depend mainly on age and stress. The main determinants of SRRS were age and education level, while BFP turned out to be more sensitive to stress than BMI. The modifying force of physical activity for SRRS appears to be age dependent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

15 pages, 549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Antecedents of Teachers’ Subjective Career Success

by Tri Muji Ingarianti, Fendy Suhariadi, Fajrianthi Fajrianthi and Ika Febrian Kristiana

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711121 - 05 Sep 2022

Viewed by 2162

Abstract

Career success is often seen as identical to objective matters such as high income and position. Meanwhile, one can see their success better when they build their own criteria of career success. In this regard, the present study aims to see the effect [...] Read more.

Career success is often seen as identical to objective matters such as high income and position. Meanwhile, one can see their success better when they build their own criteria of career success. In this regard, the present study aims to see the effect of internal (i.e., career commitment and professional commitment) and external variables (leader–member exchange and perceived organizational support) on teachers’ subjective career success. This quantitative study involved 320 teachers as participants, recruited using the accidental sampling technique. The data were collected using The Career Commitment Measure, Professional Commitment Scale, Leader–Member Exchange Multidimensionality, Survey of Perceived Organizational Support, and Subjective Career Success Inventory. The analysis result shows that career commitment, professional commitment, leader–member exchange, and perceived organizational support significantly affect teachers’ career success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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20 pages, 1885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Work Stress and Job Burnout on Turnover Intentions among Hotel Employees

by Wagih Salama, Ahmed Hassan Abdou, Shaimaa Abo Khanger Mohamed and Hossam Said Shehata

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9724; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159724 - 07 Aug 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 11413

Abstract

This research aims primarily to shed light on the impact of work stress and job burnout on employees’ turnover intention in the hotel industry. Furthermore, it aims to identify the effect of work stress on job burnout besides examining the potential mediating role [...] Read more.

This research aims primarily to shed light on the impact of work stress and job burnout on employees’ turnover intention in the hotel industry. Furthermore, it aims to identify the effect of work stress on job burnout besides examining the potential mediating role of job burnout in the relationship between work stress and employees’ turnover intentions in Egyptian hotels. For achieving this aim, the questionnaire was designed for Egyptian hotel employees and structured to cover four key parts: (1) demographic characteristics of employees of hotels, (2) work stress items, (3) job burnout items, and (4) turnover intentions. Structural equation modeling (SEM) results were obtained using AMOS software, IBM, version 24. The results indicate that job burnout partially mediates the relationship between work stress and turnover intentions. To be more specific, work stress has a significant positive effect on the turnover intention (β = +0.40, p < 0.01), and a significant positive effect on job burnout (β = +0.43 p < 0.01). Thus, there exists a strong positive association between work stress and turnover intentions as well as a positive association between job burnout and work stress. The findings of this study would help policymakers, hotel managers as well as practitioners to formulate policies for lessening the work stress, job burnout, and turnover intentions among hotel employees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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16 pages, 746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Italian Validation of the 12-Item Version of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT-12)

by Greta Mazzetti, Chiara Consiglio, Ferdinando Paolo Santarpia, Laura Borgogni, Dina Guglielmi and Wilmar B. Schaufeli

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148562 - 13 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2431

Abstract

The Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) has shown satisfactory validity evidence in several countries, with the 23-item version of the instrument reporting adequate psychometric properties also in the Italian context. This paper is aimed to present results from the Italian validation of the 12-item [...] Read more.

The Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) has shown satisfactory validity evidence in several countries, with the 23-item version of the instrument reporting adequate psychometric properties also in the Italian context. This paper is aimed to present results from the Italian validation of the 12-item version of the BAT. Based on a sample of 2277 workers, our results supported the factorial validity of a higher-order model represented by 4 first-order factors corresponding to the core dimensions of burnout, namely exhaustion, mental distance, and emotional and cognitive impairment. The measure invariance of the BAT-12 between data collected before and during the COVID-19 pandemic was supported. However, ANCOVA results suggest a higher score on the second-order burnout factor on data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic in comparison with earlier data. In line with the JD-R model, the BAT-12 total score reported a positive association with job demands (i.e., workload, time pressure, and role conflict) and a negative association with job resources (i.e., job autonomy, coworkers’ support) and personal resources (i.e., optimism, social self-efficacy, and task self-efficacy). Additionally, the BAT-12 showed a negative association with work engagement components (i.e., vigor, dedication, and absorption) and positive job attitudes (i.e., job satisfaction, affective commitment). All in all, our results identify the Italian version of the BAT-12 as a brief and reliable tool for measuring burnout among workers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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39 pages, 1744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress Detection Using Experience Sampling: A Systematic Mapping Study

by Gulin Dogan, Fatma Patlar Akbulut, Cagatay Catal and Alok Mishra

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5693; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095693 - 07 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2717

Abstract

Stress has been designated the “Health Epidemic of the 21st Century” by the World Health Organization and negatively affects the quality of individuals’ lives by detracting most body systems. In today’s world, different methods are used to track and measure various types of [...] Read more.

Stress has been designated the “Health Epidemic of the 21st Century” by the World Health Organization and negatively affects the quality of individuals’ lives by detracting most body systems. In today’s world, different methods are used to track and measure various types of stress. Among these techniques, experience sampling is a unique method for studying everyday stress, which can affect employees’ performance and even their health by threatening them emotionally and physically. The main advantage of experience sampling is that evaluating instantaneous experiences causes less memory bias than traditional retroactive measures. Further, it allows the exploration of temporal relationships in subjective experiences. The objective of this paper is to structure, analyze, and characterize the state of the art of available literature in the field of surveillance of work stress via the experience sampling method. We used the formal research methodology of systematic mapping to conduct a breadth-first review. We found 358 papers between 2010 and 2021 that are classified with respect to focus, research type, and contribution type. The resulting research landscape summarizes the opportunities and challenges of utilizing the experience sampling method on stress detection for practitioners and academics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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22 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Employee Competency and Organizational Culture on Employees’ Perceived Stress for Better Workplace

by Jina Kim and Hye-Sun Jung

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(8), 4428; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19084428 - 07 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 9129

Abstract

Although the meaningful relationship between organizational culture and employee performance is a widely-researched topic, there is scant research available how organizational culture impacts on employees’ perceived stress in the workplace, affecting their performance. This might cause a difficulty to guide practitioners as to [...] Read more.

Although the meaningful relationship between organizational culture and employee performance is a widely-researched topic, there is scant research available how organizational culture impacts on employees’ perceived stress in the workplace, affecting their performance. This might cause a difficulty to guide practitioners as to what organizational elements can be applied to reduce employee perceived stress. To add the level of robustness and fill the gap in the literature, the present research explores the effect of organizational culture with employee competency on workers’ perceived stress which has emerged as a common occupational disease and affected employees psychologically and physically; thus, affecting their performance. Using 641 responses, the statistical findings of the present research insists that HR practitioners should match the type of organizational culture and employee competency situationally to reduce employee stress. The current authors suggest that organizations desiring the adaptability competencies (Professional competency) for their employees should build a clan organizational culture. In contrast, organizations should encourage a market organizational culture for their employees who possess customer orientation competency (Simply result-oriented competency). The research outcomes provide additional knowledge to the existing literature, enhance academicians’ understanding of the research topic, and serve as a significant knowledge base for further empirical research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 628 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Emotional Exhaustion and Tobacco Consumption in Teachers

by Alexis Portilla, María Fernanda Meza and Pablo A. Lizana

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 2606; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052606 - 24 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1915

Abstract

Teachers have been reported as having high levels of emotional exhaustion (EE). It has also been observed that tobacco consumption (TC) is higher during stressful events. However, there is little evidence about the association between EE and TC among teachers. A total of [...] Read more.

Teachers have been reported as having high levels of emotional exhaustion (EE). It has also been observed that tobacco consumption (TC) is higher during stressful events. However, there is little evidence about the association between EE and TC among teachers. A total of n = 560 teachers took part in this study, where 71.79% (n = 402) were women. For data gathering, the EE dimension of the Maslach Inventory for teachers was used, along with a TC questionnaire and the sociodemographic data of the participants. A binary logistical regression model was used for statistical analysis. Regarding TC, over 30% of teachers declared that they smoked; 65% of the teachers presented medium-high EE and 31% of teachers presented high EE. Teachers who said they were smokers had a greater risk of presenting high EE (OR: 1.7, p < 0.05), along with younger teachers (≤44 years; OR: 2.1, p < 0.01). In addition, teachers with high EE also have a high risk of TC. The present study reports an association between TC and high EE category among teachers, regardless of gender. An important association is also observed between the under-45 age group and high EE. These results indicate that teachers should have psychological support and interventions aiding them with facing work stress and TC habits, especially for younger teachers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personality Traits, Strategies of Coping with Stress and Psychophysical Wellbeing of Surgical and Non-Surgical Doctors in Poland

by Ewa Marcisz-Dyla, Józefa Dąbek, Tomasz Irzyniec and Czesław Marcisz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031646 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2472

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the personality traits, strategies of coping with stress and psychophysical wellbeing of surgical and non-surgical Polish doctors. The study used the following questionnaires and scales: the Resiliency Assessment Scale, the Type D Personality Scale, the [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to determine the personality traits, strategies of coping with stress and psychophysical wellbeing of surgical and non-surgical Polish doctors. The study used the following questionnaires and scales: the Resiliency Assessment Scale, the Type D Personality Scale, the Framingham Type A Scale, the Mini COPE—Coping Inventory and the Wellbeing Scale. Doctors performing surgical specialties were characterized by a significantly higher level of resilience components, a more frequent occurrence of the type B behaviour pattern and less frequent type D personality than doctors performing non-surgical specializations. The Mini COPE point values were comparable between surgical and non-surgical physicians. The sense of psychological wellbeing was higher in surgical specialists. The higher the values of the Optimistic approach to life and the ability to mobilize oneself in difficult situations, the lower the values of the Turning to religion domain and the higher the values of the Denial domain correlated with the performance of surgical specialization. Men performing surgical specializations were more often optimistic and inclined to consume alcohol, while women with non-surgical specialization more often coped with stress by turning to religion. We conclude that the personality traits of Polish doctors vary depending on their specialization. Physicians’ coping strategies do not differ depending on their specialization. The sense of mental wellbeing is higher in surgical specialists compared to non-surgical specialists. An optimistic approach to life and the ability to mobilize oneself in difficult situations, as well as coping with stress by denial are associated with the surgical specialization. Men performing surgical specialties more often declare optimism and a tendency to cope with stress by consuming alcohol or psychoactive substances, while women who perform non-surgical specializations more often cope with stress by turning to religion. Psychological screening tests and appropriate training, taking into account medical specialization, could be one way of improving resilience and coping with stress among doctors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

17 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Jessica Scharf, Patricia Vu-Eickmann, Peter Angerer, Andreas Müller, Jürgen in der Schmitten and Adrian Loerbroks

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1359; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031359 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2225

Abstract

Work stress is common among health care professionals and this observation also holds true for general practitioners (GPs) and their medical assistance staff in Germany. Therefore, prior studies have examined the work-related intervention needs of medical assistants (MAs). We sought to explore potential [...] Read more.

Work stress is common among health care professionals and this observation also holds true for general practitioners (GPs) and their medical assistance staff in Germany. Therefore, prior studies have examined the work-related intervention needs of medical assistants (MAs). We sought to explore potential interventions that may help to address these needs according to GPs’ views. Between December 2018 and April 2019 GPs were recruited via physician networks and through personal visits in general practices. Information on the nature and prevalence of 20 work-related intervention needs of MAs was presented to GPs. GPs then participated in a qualitative interview to reflect on the MAs’ needs. Qualitative content analysis according to Mayring was carried out using MAXQDA. A total of 21 GPs participated and perceived many of the needs as justified. The least understanding was expressed for requests of MA related to occupational aspects that were already known prior to hiring. The responsibility to address needs was often assigned to the German health policy. GPs expressed though that they considered addressing the need for better leadership style as their own responsibility as supervisors. Furthermore, professional training was discussed as one opportunity to raise the recognition and remuneration of MAs. Measures to address the work-related intervention needs of MAs and to thereby improve the working conditions of MAs were discussed with GPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

20 pages, 991 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing a Scale of Care Work-Related Quality of Life (CWRQoL) for Long-Term Care Workers in England

by Shereen Hussein, Ann-Marie Towers, Sinead Palmer, Nadia Brookes, Barbora Silarova and Petra Mäkelä

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19020945 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3359

Abstract

Background: Long-term care (LTC) workers are subjected to structural and inherent difficult conditions that are likely to impact their quality of life at work; however, no agreed scale measures it. This study aims to develop a scale to measure the work-related quality of [...] Read more.

Background: Long-term care (LTC) workers are subjected to structural and inherent difficult conditions that are likely to impact their quality of life at work; however, no agreed scale measures it. This study aims to develop a scale to measure the work-related quality of life among LTC workers in England (CWRQoL). The study establishes the domains/sub-domains of CWRQoL, investigates the tool’s utility and collates information on existing supporting strategies for CWRQoL. Methods: We adopt a mixed-methods approach employing inductive/deductive processes at three stages: (1) a scoping review of the literature; (2) interviews and focus groups with frontline LTC workers, managers and LTC stakeholders; and (3) a content validity consensus survey. Results: CWRQoL is composed of seven domains (and 23 sub-domains). Additional domains to those in the literature include financial wellbeing, sufficient time for building relations, managing grief and emotions associated with client death and end of life care. Stakeholders identified several benefits and challenges related to the CWRQoL tool’s utility. COVID-19 significantly impacted LTC workers’ mental wellbeing and spillover between work and home. Conclusions: The study highlighted the complex nature of CWRQoL and provided a solid ground for developing and validating a CWRQoL scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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13 pages, 366 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing Hindering Job Demands: The Role of Belief in Life as a Zero-Sum Game and Workload

by Marta Roczniewska and Bogdan Wojciszke

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10036; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910036 - 24 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2359

Abstract

When individuals engage in job crafting by decreasing their job demands, the workload of their teammates rises. Pursuing self-interest at the expense of others requires holding a belief about the antagonistic nature of human relations. The present research demonstrates how belief in life [...] Read more.

When individuals engage in job crafting by decreasing their job demands, the workload of their teammates rises. Pursuing self-interest at the expense of others requires holding a belief about the antagonistic nature of human relations. The present research demonstrates how belief in life as a zero-sum game (BZSG) shapes workplace behaviors. Our two studies—one cross-sectional and one time-lagged—support our predictions that a strong BZSG weakens proactivity and increases the tendency to decrease one’s job demands at the expense of others. We also observed a suppression effect: workload triggers a reduction in job demands indirectly by activating BZSG, while the direct link between workload and reducing hindering job demands is negative. The results are important for both theory and practice because they delineate the conditions that prompt the avoidance of job demands by the employees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

11 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attitudes of Healthcare Personnel towards Vaccinations before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Caterina Ledda, Claudio Costantino, Mario Cuccia, Helena C. Maltezou and Venerando Rapisarda

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2703; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052703 - 08 Mar 2021

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 9132

Abstract

Vaccines constitute highly effective tools for controlling and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and are assessed to avert between two to three million deaths per year globally. Healthcare personnel (HCP) constitute a priority group for several vaccinations. However, studies indicate significant rates of vaccine [...] Read more.

Vaccines constitute highly effective tools for controlling and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and are assessed to avert between two to three million deaths per year globally. Healthcare personnel (HCP) constitute a priority group for several vaccinations. However, studies indicate significant rates of vaccine hesitancy among them and, therefore, of acceptance of vaccination recommendations. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital in Southern Italy to assess the knowledge and attitudes of HCP about VPDs before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, estimate their intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and search for determinants that may influence their choice. A self-administered questionnaire was used. HCP improved their knowledge about VPDs and were more favorable to vaccinations in September–December 2020 compared to January–December 2019. Overall, 75% of respondents would get a COVID-19 vaccine. Our findings indicate a potential role of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Italian HCP’s knowledge and attitudes towards vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

19 pages, 964 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Gender Patterns in Mobbing Victims: Differences in Negative Act Perceptions, MMPI Personality Profile, Perceived Quality of Life, and Suicide Risk

by Vincenzo Alfano, Tiziana Ramaci, Alfonso Landolfi, Alessandro Lo Presti and Massimiliano Barattucci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2192; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042192 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3836

Abstract

With the aim of investigating the impact of gender-related personality characteristics on bullying perceptions and outcomes, a correlational study was designed with 114 individuals who had used a public health service aimed at harassed workers identifying themselves as victims of mobbing in central [...] Read more.

With the aim of investigating the impact of gender-related personality characteristics on bullying perceptions and outcomes, a correlational study was designed with 114 individuals who had used a public health service aimed at harassed workers identifying themselves as victims of mobbing in central Italy. The study was conducted using the following questionnaires: the Negative Acts Questionnaire (NAQ), a measure of workplace bullying; the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), used to provide information to measure personality dimensions for workplace screening; the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BRIEF) which assesses four domains assumed to represent the quality of life construct; and the Suicidal Potential Scale (SPS) used to assess suicidal ideation. MMPI-2 profile results show a significant elevation of specific MMPI scales and gender differences. When compared to women, men who complain of being the victims of negative actions at work are more depressed, paranoid, introverted, anxious, and obsessive, and have higher anger levels and lower self-esteem. Many different MMPI-2 scales are also predictors of quality of life (QoL) perceptions and suicidal tendencies. The NAQ total score, however, predicts quality of life and suicide risk. Perceptions of negative actions have a serious effect on life outcomes. The results provide useful indications on personality profiles and gender differences, which can be understood as antecedents in the perception of negative events, and factors capable of modulating the effect of perceived bullying actions on outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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15 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Workplace Conflicts on Self-Reported Medically Certified Sickness Absence in Latvia

by Svetlana Lakiša, Linda Matisāne, Inese Gobiņa, Ivars Vanadziņš, Lāsma Akūlova, Maija Eglīte and Linda Paegle

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1193; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031193 - 29 Jan 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6999

Abstract

Sickness absence is one of the most important working population health indicators. It is a complex phenomenon that is investigated by health care and occupational health specialists, economists, and work psychologists. Sickness absence is used as a predictor for morbidity and mortality, but [...] Read more.

Sickness absence is one of the most important working population health indicators. It is a complex phenomenon that is investigated by health care and occupational health specialists, economists, and work psychologists. Sickness absence is used as a predictor for morbidity and mortality, but besides the health status of an individual, sickness absence is influenced by demographic, socio-economic factors, and work environment factors. Conflicts at work are a common psychosocial risk factor that can affect sickness absence. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between different types of workplace conflict and self-reported medically certified sickness absence using cross-sectional survey data pooled from four periodic national surveys—Work conditions and risks in Latvia (2006–2018). The sample is representative of the working population of Latvia, as respondents were randomly drawn from different regions and industries. In total, the study sample (n = 8557) consisted of employees between 16 and 80 years old (average 42.8 +/− 12.6) of which 46.2% were males and 53.8% were females. Researchers used the computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) method for collecting data. The association between workplace conflicts and sickness absence was analysed by using binomial logistic regression and calculated as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), with adjustment for gender, age, education and survey year. The risk of sickness absence was higher among women (OR = 1.24, CI 1.13–1.35), employees aged 25–44 years old and employees with higher income. Controlling for socio-demographic factors and survey year, the odds of sickness absence increased significantly for all types of workplace conflict analysed. The strongest association with sickness absence was related to conflicts between managers and employees (OR = 1.51, CI 1.37–1.66) and conflicts between groups of employees (OR = 1.45, CI 1.31–1.61). Conflicts between employees and with customers also increased the odds of sickness absence (OR = 1.39, CI 1.27–1.52 and OR = 1.11, CI 1.01–1.23, respectively). Our findings suggest that tailored interventions at a company level for reducing workplace conflicts as risk factors of sickness absence are required. Those should focus on the improvement of managers’ leadership and human resource management skills. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

17 pages, 1060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Emotional Dissonance and Mental Load on Need for Recovery and Work Engagement among Italian Fixed-Term Researchers

by Francesco Pace and Giulia Sciotto

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010099 - 25 Dec 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3009

Abstract

Although many studies have been conducted to evaluate the risk and protective factors on psychological health among academic staff, little attention has been paid to fixed-term researchers, the weakest figures in the academic context. By using the Job Demands–Resources model as theoretical framework, [...] Read more.

Although many studies have been conducted to evaluate the risk and protective factors on psychological health among academic staff, little attention has been paid to fixed-term researchers, the weakest figures in the academic context. By using the Job Demands–Resources model as theoretical framework, we investigated: (1) the role of some job demands (workload, mental load, and emotional dissonance) in predicting the need for recovery; (2) the role of some job resources (independence, career opportunities, and work–life balance) in predicting work engagement; and (3) the moderating role of the contract type (more or less precarious). We focused in particular on emotional dissonance (the discrepancy between emotions that need to be displayed and what is really felt), assuming its unique role in predicting fatigue. Results of structural equation modeling analysis generally supported our hypotheses and highlighted a so far undiscovered path between mental load and work engagement. Specifically, mental load leads to fatigue only indirectly through workload and emotional dissonance, while significantly predicting the absorption and the dedication of fixed-term Italian researchers. The latter relationship was also moderated by the contract type, so that mental load predicts dedication especially among researchers in the most precarious condition. Full article

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13 pages, 833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mental and Physical Factors Influencing Wellbeing among South Korean Emergency Workers

by Mi Young Choi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010070 - 24 Dec 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3321

Abstract

Emergency workers are frequently exposed to hazardous situations and such life patterns can influence their wellbeing. This study examined the relationships among South Korean emergency workers’ precedents and consequences of positive emotion, engagement, relationship, meaning, and achievement (PERMA), a wellbeing concept, and offered [...] Read more.

Emergency workers are frequently exposed to hazardous situations and such life patterns can influence their wellbeing. This study examined the relationships among South Korean emergency workers’ precedents and consequences of positive emotion, engagement, relationship, meaning, and achievement (PERMA), a wellbeing concept, and offered solutions. A total of 597 emergency workers in Daegu, South Korea, participated in a survey. This study measured post-traumatic stress disorder syndrome, burnout, depression, PERMA, quality of life, life satisfaction, and sleep quality to test the relationships. Results demonstrated that post-traumatic stress disorder syndrome and burnout predicted distracting sleep behavior and sleep health. Depression was significantly related to PERMA. The better the emergency workers’ PERMA was, the better their quality of life and life satisfaction were. PERMA significantly predicted sleep behavior, a portion of sleep quality. Depression had an indirect influence on quality of life mediated by PERMA. Post-traumatic stress disorder syndrome, burnout, and PERMA were significant predictors of low sleep health and sleep behavior. The results indicate that South Korean emergency workers struggle with depression and sleep quality. As the data were collected during the coronavirus disease 19 pandemic, individual efforts and relevant programs to improve South Korean emergency workers’ PERMA and sleep quality in a crisis are recommended. Possible solutions to improve the wellbeing of South Korean emergency workers are suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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16 pages, 1267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of the COVID-19 Event on Deviant Workplace Behavior Taking Tianjin, Beijing and Hebei as an Example

by Yingyan Liu, Zaisheng Zhang and Heng Zhao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010059 - 23 Dec 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4917

Abstract

Background: Since the beginning of 2020, the Corona Virus Disease has broken out globally. This public health incident has had a great impact on the work and life of the public. Aim: Based on the event system theory, this article explored [...] Read more.

Background: Since the beginning of 2020, the Corona Virus Disease has broken out globally. This public health incident has had a great impact on the work and life of the public. Aim: Based on the event system theory, this article explored the influence of the “COVID-19” event on emotional exhaustion and deviant workplace behaviors. Methods: This survey’s objects are employees working in Tianjin, Beijing, Hebei affected by the epidemic. Using the questionnaire star, the online platform of the Marketing Research Office of Peking University and “snowball” methods 700 questionnaires were collected. Results: The response rate was 89.71% (n = 700). Female employees are more sensitive to the perceived event strength of the novel coronavirus pneumonia than male employees (F = 10.94, p <0.001); Employees aged 30–40 affected by the epidemic have the highest level of emotional exhaustion (F = 5.22, p < 0.01); A higher education level leads to a higher level of emotional exhaustion (F = 4.74, p < 0.01); The emotional exhaustion is polarized with the annual family income (F = 4.099, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The novelty, disruption, criticality of the Corona Virus Disease event has had a positive impact on the emotional exhaustion of employees in the workplace; Emotional exhaustion plays a partly mediating role between event strength with constructive deviant behaviors, and destructive deviant behaviors. Emotional exhaustion has a positive effect on creative constructive deviant behaviors, challenging constructive deviant behaviors, and interpersonal destructive deviant behaviors. Emotional exhaustion has a negative impact on organizational destructive deviant behaviors, and has no significant impact on interpersonal constructive deviant behaviors. Full article

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21 pages, 1398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Factors of Stress and Its Outcomes among Hotel Housekeepers in the Balearic Islands: A Qualitative Approach from a Gender Perspective

by Xenia Chela-Alvarez, Oana Bulilete, M. Esther García-Buades, Victoria A. Ferrer-Perez and Joan Llobera-Canaves

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010052 - 23 Dec 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3158

Abstract

Tourism is the main economic sector in the Balearic Islands (Spain) and hotel housekeepers (HHs) are a large occupational group, in which stress is becoming a major issue. This study aims at exploring in-depth factors perceived as stressors by HHs and key-informants, and [...] Read more.

Tourism is the main economic sector in the Balearic Islands (Spain) and hotel housekeepers (HHs) are a large occupational group, in which stress is becoming a major issue. This study aims at exploring in-depth factors perceived as stressors by HHs and key-informants, and their effects on work-life balance (WLB). A qualitative design with phenomenological approach was used, conducting six focus groups with 34 HHs and 10 individual interviews with key-informants. Results were analyzed adopting the job demands-resources model and a gender perspective. High demands, e.g., work overload, time pressure, physical burden…, lack of enough resources and little control, derived from role conflict, unexpected events…, were the most important factors explaining HHs’ stress. Additionally, this imbalance was perceived as leading to health problems, mainly musculoskeletal disorders. Working schedule was mentioned as a facilitator to WLB, whereas an imbalance between job demands and resources led to work-home conflict, preventing them from enjoying leisure time. Multiple roles at work and at home increased their stress. HHs experienced their job as invisible and unrecognised. Regarding practical implications, our recommendations for hotel organization include reducing workload and increasing resources, which would improve the job demands-resource balance, diminish negative mental and physical outcomes and improve WLB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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17 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Roles of Work-Life Conflict and Gender in the Relationship between Workplace Bullying and Personal Burnout. A Study on Italian School Principals

by Ilaria Buonomo, Caterina Fiorilli, Luciano Romano and Paula Benevene

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(23), 8745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17238745 - 25 Nov 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4247

Abstract

The present study sought to investigate the associations between workplace bullying and personal burnout both directly and indirectly via work-life conflict. Furthermore, the moderating role of gender in these relations was examined. Traditional research on stress at work focuses on the role of [...] Read more.

The present study sought to investigate the associations between workplace bullying and personal burnout both directly and indirectly via work-life conflict. Furthermore, the moderating role of gender in these relations was examined. Traditional research on stress at work focuses on the role of dimensions related to job tasks, demands, and organizational support in influencing the risks for stress-related problems in employees. At the same time, other experiences at work may reduce employees’ well-being, such as workplace bullying and family life. Specifically, considering the detrimental role of work-life conflict, it is possible to hypothesize that it would exacerbate workplace bullying’s harmful effects on employees’ health. Moreover, since previous studies have reported mixed or inconsistent results when considering gender differences with the above-mentioned dimensions, it seems worth investigating the role of employee gender in representing (and response to) the bullying experiences. Building on these considerations, this work verifies whether: (1) work-life conflict mediates the relationship between workplace bullying and burnout; (2) gender moderates all the possible relationships among the constructs. Such hypotheses are verified on a sample of school principals, in light of their peculiar job role. Overall, our findings showed that: (1) Workplace bullying and burnout are associated, both with and without the perception of a concurring work-life conflict; (2) Gender does not moderate all the possible relationships among workplace bullying, work-life conflict and burnout. Overall, being female heightens the risk to perceive work-life conflict in general, as well as to be burnt out, when bullied, with and without the presence of work-life conflict; being male heightens the risk to perceive work-life conflict when bullied. Furthermore, the current findings suggest that family demands may influence school principals’ feelings of exhaustion regardless of gender. These findings confirm and expand previous literature, especially concerning a less studied occupation, namely school principals, shedding a new light on their work experiences. Furthermore, the present study offers interesting implications for trainings on principal’s skills and professional identity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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11 pages, 1841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postural Control and Stress Exposure in Young Men: Changes in Cortisol Awakening Response and Blood Lactate

by Marinella Coco, Andrea Buscemi, Emanuele Pennisi, Paolo Cavallari, Giacomo Papotto, Giulio Maria Federico Papotto, Vincenzo Perciavalle, Donatella Di Corrado and Valentina Perciavalle

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 7222; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197222 - 02 Oct 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

Background: It has recently been noticed that the quantity of stress affects postural stability in young women. The study was conducted with the goal of investigating whether increased stress may damagingly effect posture control in 90 young men (71 right-handed and 19 left-handed) [...] Read more.

Background: It has recently been noticed that the quantity of stress affects postural stability in young women. The study was conducted with the goal of investigating whether increased stress may damagingly effect posture control in 90 young men (71 right-handed and 19 left-handed) while maintaining an upright bipedal posture, while keeping their eyes open or closed. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was administered and changes in free cortisol levels were monitored (Cortisol Awakening Response, CAR) in order to evaluate the amount of stress present during awakening, while the Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to estimate distress on the whole. Posture control was evaluated with the use of a force platform, which, while computing a confidence ellipse area of 95%, was engaged by the Center of Pressure through five stability stations and was sustained for a minimum of 52 s, with and without visual input. Another goal of the experiment was to find out whether or not cortisol increases in CAR were linked with rises of blood lactate levels. Results: CAR, PSS and POMS were found to be extensively related. Furthermore, it has been observed that increases in salivary cortisol in CAR are associated with small but significant increases in blood lactate levels. As expected, stress levels did affect postural stability. Conclusions: The results of the present study confirm that the level of stress can influence postural stability, and that this influence is principally obvious when visual information is not used in postural control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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11 pages, 307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hospital Staff Report It Is Not Burnout, but a Normal Stress Reaction to an Uncongenial Work Environment: Findings from a Qualitative Study

by Madeleine Kendrick, Kevin Kendrick, Peter Morton, Nicholas F. Taylor and Sandra G. Leggat

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 4107; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17114107 - 09 Jun 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4101

Abstract

(1) Background: The issue of burnout in healthcare staff is frequently discussed in relation to occupational health. In this paper, we report healthcare staff experiences of stress and burnout. (2) Methods: In total, 72 healthcare staff were interviewed from psychiatry, surgery, and emergency [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The issue of burnout in healthcare staff is frequently discussed in relation to occupational health. In this paper, we report healthcare staff experiences of stress and burnout. (2) Methods: In total, 72 healthcare staff were interviewed from psychiatry, surgery, and emergency departments at an Australian public health service. The sample included doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, administrators, and front-line managers. Interview transcripts were thematically analyzed, with participant experiences interpreted against descriptors of burnout in Maslach’s Burnout Inventory and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11). (3) Results: Staff experiences closely matched the ICD-11 description of stress associated with working in an uncongenial workplace, with few reported experiences which matched the ICD-11 descriptors of burnout. (4) Conclusion: Uncongenial workplaces in public health services contribute to healthcare staff stress. While previous approaches have focused on biomedical assistance for individuals, our findings suggest that occupational health approaches to addressing health care staff stress need greater focus on the workplace as a social determinant of health. This finding is significant as organizational remedies to uncongenial stress are quite different from remedies to burnout. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

15 pages, 1780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Analysis of Work-to-Family Conflict and Self-Reported General Health among Working Parents in Germany

by Lea-Sophie Borgmann, Petra Rattay and Thomas Lampert

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 3966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17113966 - 03 Jun 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3750

Abstract

The combination of work and family roles can lead to work-to-family conflict (WTFC), which may have consequences for the parents’ health. We examined the association between WTFC and self-reported general health among working parents in Germany over time. Data were drawn from wave [...] Read more.

The combination of work and family roles can lead to work-to-family conflict (WTFC), which may have consequences for the parents’ health. We examined the association between WTFC and self-reported general health among working parents in Germany over time. Data were drawn from wave 6 (2013) and wave 8 (2015) of the German family and relationship panel. It included working persons living together with at least one child in the household (791 mothers and 723 fathers). Using logistic regressions, we estimated the longitudinal effects of WTFC in wave 6 and 8 on self-reported general health in wave 8. Moderating effects of education were also considered. The odds ratio for poor self-reported general health for mothers who developed WTFC in wave 8 compared to mothers who never reported conflicts was 2.4 (95% CI: 1.54–3.68). For fathers with newly emerged WTFC in wave 8, the odds ratio was 1.8 (95% CI: 1.03–3.04). Interactions of WTFC with low education showed no significant effects on self-reported general health, although tendencies show that fathers with lower education are more affected. It remains to be discussed how health-related consequences of WTFC can be reduced e.g., through workplace interventions and reconciliation policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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15 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress, Burnout, and Turnover Issues of Black Expatriate Education Professionals in South Korea: Social Biases, Discrimination, and Workplace Bullying

by Luis Miguel Dos Santos

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 3851; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17113851 - 29 May 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6033

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand expatriate educators’ overall teaching experiences and opinions about living in South Korea. The research study sought to explore the relationship between stressors and social biases against Black individuals and their suicidal behaviours and turnover decisions. [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to understand expatriate educators’ overall teaching experiences and opinions about living in South Korea. The research study sought to explore the relationship between stressors and social biases against Black individuals and their suicidal behaviours and turnover decisions. The approach of stress, burnout, career decision, and suicide guided this study as the lens. The research method for this study included a phenomenological analysis of two sessions of semi-structured interviews with 18 Black expatriates in the field of education in South Korea. The results indicate that their experiences were impacted by unfairness against individuals based on their skin colour and nationalities. The outcomes of this study highlight the major difficulties experienced by foreign professionals living in South Korea. They can be used by human resource professionals, school administrators, and government leaders to reform their current policy and improve expatriate experiences so as to prevent turnover. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antecedents and Contextual Factors Affecting Occupational Turnover among Registered Nurses in Public Hospitals in Hong Kong: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

by Maria S. Y. Hung and Stanley K. K. Lam

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 3834; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17113834 - 28 May 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6089

Abstract

Global increases in both population size and ageing have led to a drastic expansion in the demand for healthcare services. The shortage of nursing workforce capacity continues, posing immense challenges for the global healthcare system. We aimed to identify the antecedents and contextual [...] Read more.

Global increases in both population size and ageing have led to a drastic expansion in the demand for healthcare services. The shortage of nursing workforce capacity continues, posing immense challenges for the global healthcare system. We aimed to identify the antecedents and contextual factors that contribute to the decisions of occupational turnover from the clinical duties of registered nurses in public hospitals in Hong Kong. A qualitative descriptive design was used in this study. A total of 18 registered nurses who had resigned from public hospitals in Hong Kong and changed their occupations were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling methods. Data were collected through individual, semi-structured, and face-to-face interviews and were analyzed according to the content analysis approach. The antecedents and contextual factors that contributed to the registered nurses’ decisions regarding occupational turnover were identified from the collected data. These factors were classified into three overarching categories: (1) job dissatisfaction due to a tense work environment, (2) low motivation due to limited career opportunities, and (3) inadequate communication due to ineffective leadership. The identification of these antecedents and contextual factors could help healthcare service providers to develop strategies to enhance nurses’ commitment and engagement in their positions and eventually improve their retention. Based on these factors, healthcare sector policy makers could consider incorporating appropriate strategies into healthcare system policy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

16 pages, 723 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mindfulness as a Protective Factor for Dissatisfaction in HCWs: The Moderating Role of Mindful Attention between Climate Stress and Job Satisfaction

by Tiziana Ramaci, Venerando Rapisarda, Diego Bellini, Nicola Mucci, Andrea De Giorgio and Massimiliano Barattucci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 3818; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17113818 - 28 May 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3868

Abstract

With the aim of investigating the possible moderating effect of job control and dispositional mindfulness between different sources of organizational stress and job satisfaction, a correlational study was designed involving health care workers (HCWs). The following questionnaires were administered and completed by 237 [...] Read more.

With the aim of investigating the possible moderating effect of job control and dispositional mindfulness between different sources of organizational stress and job satisfaction, a correlational study was designed involving health care workers (HCWs). The following questionnaires were administered and completed by 237 HCWs: (1) Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI), to measure the sources of stress at work (managerial role, climate power, climate structure, internal relationships), and job satisfaction; (2) Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) to assess the individual’s level of attention to what is taking place in the present; (3) Job Control Scale (JCS) to assess the perceived control at work. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to test the hypothesized relationships between variables; the results showed that, between the different sources of stress, the organizational climate dimension was negatively associated with job satisfaction; moreover, mindfulness attention moderated the relationship between climate stress and job satisfaction; unexpectedly, the interaction between job control and the organizational climate dimension was not significant in affecting job satisfaction. This study can provide useful information for Human Resources Management (HRM) practices regarding job and mental control interventions and empowerment, and possibly offer a new interpretation of the role of attention to what is happening in the present moment and autonomy between climate stressors and occupational satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Links between Polychronicity and Job Performance from the Person–Environment Fit Perspective—The Mediating Role of Well-Being

by Tung-Ju Wu, Jia-Ying Gao, Lian-Yi Wang and Kuo-Shu Yuan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(10), 3711; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17103711 - 25 May 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 4593

Abstract

Polychronicity refers to the preference of some individuals to structure their time in order to deal with multiple tasks simultaneously in a short period of time. Past research regarding the correlation between individual polychronicity and performance presented distinct arguments. Although most studies supported [...] Read more.

Polychronicity refers to the preference of some individuals to structure their time in order to deal with multiple tasks simultaneously in a short period of time. Past research regarding the correlation between individual polychronicity and performance presented distinct arguments. Although most studies supported a positive correlation with performance, empirical findings showed inconsistent results, indicating the presence of other influencing factors. According to the person–environment fit theory and self-determination theory, the effect of polychronicity on job performance was verified and the mediation effect of well-being was tested in this study. Dual-mode questionnaires were collected from 532 subordinators and their direct supervisors in 98 chain restaurants and hierarchical regression analysis was performed to test the research hypotheses. The results showed that polychronicity positively affected well-being, that is, well-being was a full mediator between polychronicity and job performance. This study provides valuable insight for managers to understand employee polychronicity and, in turn, improve their well-being, which could help improve job performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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18 pages, 1240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occupational Stress and Employees Complete Mental Health: A Cross-Cultural Empirical Study

by Alcides Moreno Fortes, Lili Tian and E. Scott Huebner

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(10), 3629; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17103629 - 21 May 2020

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 11349

Abstract

Given the shortcomings of previous research on occupational stress and mental health (e.g., predominantly in Western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic (WEIRD) societies, based on the traditional mental health model and a lack of comparative studies), this study aimed to (a) examine the [...] Read more.

Given the shortcomings of previous research on occupational stress and mental health (e.g., predominantly in Western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic (WEIRD) societies, based on the traditional mental health model and a lack of comparative studies), this study aimed to (a) examine the relationship between occupational stress and complete mental health among employees in Cabo Verde and China, and also explored the mediation and moderation roles of burnout and optimism in accounting for the empirical link. Mental health was defined as comprised of two distinguishable factors: positive and negative mental health. The Pearson correlation test, structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis, bootstrap analysis, hierarchical moderated regression and an independent t-test were used to analyze the data. The results indicated that, in both countries, occupational stress showed a negative relation to positive mental health and lower psychopathology symptoms—and job burnout mediated the relation between occupational stress and mental health. Optimism moderated the relation between occupational stress and burnout, but not the relation between occupational stress and complete mental health. The results are interpreted in light of the comparative framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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13 pages, 533 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Stress Factors for Female Professors at Online Universities

by Marialuz Arántzazu García-González, Fermín Torrano and Guillermo García-González

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(8), 2958; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17082958 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 6550

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze the primary stress factors female professors at online universities are exposed to. The technique used for the prospective and exploratory analysis was the Delphi method. Two rounds of consultations were done with fourteen judges with [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to analyze the primary stress factors female professors at online universities are exposed to. The technique used for the prospective and exploratory analysis was the Delphi method. Two rounds of consultations were done with fourteen judges with broad experience in health and safety at work and university teaching who reached a consensus of opinion regarding a list of nine psychosocial risk factors. Among the most important risk factors, mental overload, time pressure, the lack of a schedule, and emotional exhaustion were highlighted. These risk factors are related to the usage and expansion of information and communication technology (ICT) and to the university system itself, which requires initiating more research in the future in order to develop the intervention programs needed to fortify the health of the affected teachers and protect them from stress and other psychosocial risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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18 pages, 963 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mindfulness versus Physical Exercise: Effects of Two Recovery Strategies on Mental Health, Stress and Immunoglobulin A during Lunch Breaks. A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Cintia Díaz-Silveira, Carlos-María Alcover, Francisco Burgos, Alberto Marcos and Miguel A. Santed

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(8), 2839; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17082839 - 20 Apr 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8731

Abstract

This research analyses the effects of mindfulness meditation (MM) and physical exercise (PE), practised as daily recovery activities during lunch breaks, on perceived stress, general mental health, and immunoglobin A (IgA). A three-armed randomized controlled trial with 94 employees was conducted for five [...] Read more.

This research analyses the effects of mindfulness meditation (MM) and physical exercise (PE), practised as daily recovery activities during lunch breaks, on perceived stress, general mental health, and immunoglobin A (IgA). A three-armed randomized controlled trial with 94 employees was conducted for five weeks including two follow-up sessions after one and six months. Daily practice lasted 30 min maximum. Perceived stress and general mental health questionnaires and saliva samples were used. There were significant differences in time factor comparing pre- and post-test of Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ) both for PE [Mdiff = 0.10, SE = 0.03, p = 0.03], and for MM [Mdiff = 0.09, SE = 0.03, p = 0.03]. Moreover, there were significant differences of interaction factor when comparing MM vs. PE in total score at pre-post [F = −2.62 (6, 168.84), p = 0.02, ω² = 0.09], favoring PE with medium and high effect sizes. Regarding General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) variable, practicing MM showed significant effects in time factor compared to pre-Fup2. No significant differences were found for IgA. Thus, practicing both MM and PE as recovery strategies during lunch breaks could reduce perceived stress after five weeks of practice, with better results for PE. Moreover, practicing MM could improve mental health with effects for 6 months. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 346 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Roles of Individual and Psychosocial Factors in Predicting Quality of Life Among Working Women in Shanghai

by Yi Xiao, Tao Zhang, Xiangli Gu, Joonyoung Lee and Hongying Wang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(5), 1751; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17051751 - 07 Mar 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2825

Abstract

Working women are at a high risk of suffering from occupational stress and burnout, which can result in reducing Quality of Life (QoL). Guided by the QoL construct and Luban et al.’s conceptual framework, this study aimed to (a) investigate the roles of [...] Read more.

Working women are at a high risk of suffering from occupational stress and burnout, which can result in reducing Quality of Life (QoL). Guided by the QoL construct and Luban et al.’s conceptual framework, this study aimed to (a) investigate the roles of individual factors (i.e., age) and psychosocial factors (i.e., occupational stress, burnout) on QoL among working women, and (b) examine the age differences among study variables (young versus middle-aged groups). Participants were 375 working women (M_age = 42.06) recruited in Shanghai, China. They completed previously validated questionnaires assessing their occupational stress, burnout (emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy), and QoL (physical health, psychological health, social relationship, and living environment). Confirmatory factor analysis, Pearson product-moment correlation, hierarchical regressions, and factorial multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) were used to examine the relationships and differences between occupational stress, burnout, and QoL among working women. Correlation and regression analyses indicated that occupational stress and burnout were significantly associated with QoL among these participants. Two one-factor MANOVAs demonstrated that young-aged working women had higher occupational stress and burnout, but lower levels of QoL than middle-aged women. These results suggest that adopting specific coping strategies to reduce or prevent occupational stress and burnout are needed to improve QoL among working women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

18 pages, 344 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Burnout and Self-Perceived Instructional Competence: An Exploratory Study of a Group of Italian Female Elementary School Teachers

by Monica Pellerone, Venerando Rapisarda, Maria Chiara Antonietta Trischitta, Ermanno Vitale and Tiziana Ramaci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(4), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17041356 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4081

Abstract

Since the first half of the 1980s, burnout in teachers has been the object of particular attention by many international authors. Teachers are subject, more than other professions, to numerous and heavy pressures, covering the peculiarity of the profession. The objectives of the [...] Read more.

Since the first half of the 1980s, burnout in teachers has been the object of particular attention by many international authors. Teachers are subject, more than other professions, to numerous and heavy pressures, covering the peculiarity of the profession. The objectives of the present research are to measure the predictive role of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment on the quality of teaching in a group of elementary school teachers. We carried out a cross-sectional study involving 324 Sicilian female teachers, who worked in three school orders: Kindergarten, primary school, and the first year of middle school. Participants completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the assessment teaching scale for primary school teachers (ECAD-EP), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). In reference to the level of burnout, the correlation analysis underlined the presence of a positive correlation between: Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization; and a negative correlation between exhaustion and depersonalization. Furthermore, a predictive role of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment on the quality of teaching in a group of primary school teachers was found. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

14 pages, 496 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the Nurses’ Occupational Stressor Scale

by Yi-Chuan Chen, Yue-Liang Leon Guo, Li-Chan Lin, Yu-Ju Lee, Pei-Yi Hu, Jiune-Jye Ho and Judith Shu-Chu Shiao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17020649 - 19 Jan 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8225

Abstract

Although nurses work in stressful environments, stressors in such environments have yet to be clearly assessed. This study aimed to develop a Nurses’ Occupational Stressor Scale (NOSS) with high reliability and validity. Candidate questions for the NOSS were generated by expert consensus following [...] Read more.

Although nurses work in stressful environments, stressors in such environments have yet to be clearly assessed. This study aimed to develop a Nurses’ Occupational Stressor Scale (NOSS) with high reliability and validity. Candidate questions for the NOSS were generated by expert consensus following focus group feedback, and were used to survey in 2013. A shorter version was then developed after examination for validity and reproducibility in 2014. The accuracy of the short version of the NOSS for predicting nurses’ stress levels was evaluated based on receiver operating characteristic curves to compare existing instruments for measuring stress outcomes, namely personal burnout, client-related burnout, job dissatisfaction, and intention to leave. Examination for validity and reproducibility yielded a shorter version of NOSS with only 21 items was considered sufficient for measuring stressors in nurses’ work environments. Nine subscales were included: (1) work demands, (2) work–family conflict, (3) insufficient support from coworkers or caregivers, (4) workplace violence and bullying, (5) organizational issues, (6) occupational hazards, (7) difficulty taking leave, (8) powerlessness, and (9) unmet basic physiological needs. The 21-item NOSS proved to have high concurrent and construct validity. The correlation coefficients of the subscales for test-retest reliability ranged from 0.71 to 0.83. The internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) coefficients ranged from 0.35 to 0.77. The NOSS exhibited accurate prediction of personal burnout, client-related burnout, job dissatisfaction, and intention to leave. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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16 pages, 1095 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Straining at Work and Its Relationship with Personality Profiles and Individual Consequences in Healthcare Workers (HCWs)

by Tiziana Ramaci, Massimiliano Barattucci, Francesca Vella, Paola Senia, Emanuele Cannizzaro, Alessandro Scorciapino, Caterina Ledda, Andrea De Giorgio and Venerando Rapisarda

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17020610 - 17 Jan 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4253

Abstract

Straining is an attenuated form of mobbing, in which the continuity of vexatious actions is not driven by a discriminatory intent. With the objective of testing the possible moderating role of personality in the relationship between perceptions about straining at work and individual [...] Read more.

Straining is an attenuated form of mobbing, in which the continuity of vexatious actions is not driven by a discriminatory intent. With the objective of testing the possible moderating role of personality in the relationship between perceptions about straining at work and individual consequences, a correlational design research involved 374 healthcare workers (HCWs) from two Italian hospitals. The following questionnaires were administered: (1) Short Negative Acts Questionnaire (S-NAQ), to assess discriminative actions at work); (2) the Italian version of the Big Five Inventory (BFI-10 scale), to assess personality factors; (3) Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI), to measure psychological and physical health. Regression analysis and Structural Equation Models (SEM) were computed in order to test the relationships between variables. Perceived straining showed significant correlations with both psychological and physical health. Conscientiousness was inversely proportional to work-related bullying (WB), as agreeableness was to personal bullying (PB). Emotional stability was negatively correlated with all the three component scales of S-NAQ: WB, PB, and social bullying. The results seem to confirm that straining perceptions especially elicit, through emotional stability, psychological consequences. As regards the role of emotional stability in risk perceptions, it seems management has to pay thorough attention to personal factors in organizational perceptions and to straining actions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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9 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Night-Time Shift Work and Related Stress Responses: A Study on Security Guards

by Emanuele Cannizzaro, Luigi Cirrincione, Walter Mazzucco, Alessandro Scorciapino, Cesare Catalano, Tiziana Ramaci, Caterina Ledda and Fulvio Plescia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17020562 - 15 Jan 2020

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 8643

Abstract

Work-related stress can induce a break in homeostasis by placing demands on the body that are met by the activation of two different systems, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Night-shift work alters the body’s exposure to the natural light–dark schedule [...] Read more.

Work-related stress can induce a break in homeostasis by placing demands on the body that are met by the activation of two different systems, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Night-shift work alters the body’s exposure to the natural light–dark schedule and disrupts circadian (daily) rhythms. The greatest effect of night-shift work is the disruption of circadian rhythms. The impact that these disruptions may have on the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer, is unknown. This study aims to discover the relationship among three different job activities of security guards and their stress-related responses by evaluating salivary cortisol levels and blood pressure. Methods: Ninety security guards, including night-time workers and night-time and daily-shift workers, were recruited for this study. Each security guard provided two saliva samples before and after three scheduled time points: (i) at 22:00, (ii) at 06:30, and (iii) at 14:00. Results: The results of the study showed a significant alteration in cortisol levels. Night-time shift cortisol levels significantly increased before and after the work shifts. A physiological prevalence of the vagal tone on the cardiocirculatory activity was found during night-shift work. Conclusions: This study indicates that cortisol levels and blood pressure are sensitive markers of biological responses to severe work stress. Shift-change consequences may occur at the end of the night shift when there is a significant increase in the cortisol level and a significant variation in cardiovascular parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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13 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sickness Presence among Health Care Professionals: A Cross Sectional Study of Health Care Professionals in Slovenia

by Alenka Skerjanc and Metoda Dodic Fikfak

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(1), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17010367 - 06 Jan 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3098

Abstract

Background and objectives: Presenteeism is a relatively new phenomenon that people, despite complaints and ill health that should prompt them to rest and take sick leave, go to work in any case. The highest sickness presence is largely to be found in the [...] Read more.

Background and objectives: Presenteeism is a relatively new phenomenon that people, despite complaints and ill health that should prompt them to rest and take sick leave, go to work in any case. The highest sickness presence is largely to be found in the care and welfare and educational sectors. The aim of the study is to investigate the relations between different factors and sickness presence among health care professionals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the largest hospital in Slovenia involving 5865 health care professionals employed at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana in the period between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2010. Logistic regression methods were used to assess the associations between risk factors and their interactions and sickness presence. Results: Besides high odds for sickness presence in multivariate modelling for acute (OR = 359.7; 95%CI = 89.1–1452.8) and chronic disease (OR = 722.5; 95%CI = 178.5–2924.5) the highest odds were calculated for poor self-related health (OR = 3.0; 95%CI = 1.9–4.8), no possibility of replacement (OR = 1.9; 95%CI = 1.5–2.3), sickness absence > two times a year (OR = 1.6; 95%CI = 1.2–2.1), disabled workers (OR = 1.6; 95%CI = 1.0–2.5), and lower salary when on sick leave (OR = 1.5; 95%CI = 120–1.9). Risk factors interactions were not found to be associated with sickness presence among health care workers. Conclusions: The pre-requisite for higher sickness presence is workers’ bad health. The results indicate that sickness presence was associated with psycho social risk factors at work and their economic consequences. Continued sickness presence might have negative rather than positive consequences on work and health care professionals’ health in the future. Sickness presence needs to be taken into account for health care organizers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

13 pages, 360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Work-Related Stress and QT Prolongation in Male Workers

by Luigi Isaia Lecca, Igor Portoghese, Nicola Mucci, Maura Galletta, Federico Meloni, Ilaria Pilia, Gabriele Marcias, Daniele Fabbri, Jacopo Fostinelli, Roberto G. Lucchini, Pierluigi Cocco and Marcello Campagna

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(23), 4781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16234781 - 28 Nov 2019

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3128

Abstract

Background: Work-related stress is a potential cardiovascular risk factor, but the underlying mechanism is not fully explained. The autonomic nervous system control of cardiac function might play a specific role; therefore, monitoring the QT interval in the electrocardiogram can highlight an autonomic imbalance [...] Read more.

Background: Work-related stress is a potential cardiovascular risk factor, but the underlying mechanism is not fully explained. The autonomic nervous system control of cardiac function might play a specific role; therefore, monitoring the QT interval in the electrocardiogram can highlight an autonomic imbalance induced by occupational stressors. The aim of our study was to explore the QT interval parameters as early indicators of imbalance of the autonomic cardiac function in relation to work-related stress. Methods: During 2015–2016 annual workplace health surveillance, we measured work-related stress in 484 workers of a logistic support company using the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) tool. We assessed the frequency-corrected QT (QTc) interval and the QT index (QTi) on the electrocardiogram of each participant, and collected demographic and clinical data. We compared the QTc values by the four Karasek’s categories (active/passive jobs, low/high strain job), and by job support (present/lacking), and conducted multivariate analysis to adjust for possible confounders. Results: The results of the multivariate regression analysis showed that QTc was prolonged among workers operating at a specific site where stress level was found to be elevated. Regular physical activity showed a beneficial effect against QTc prolongation. We did not observe an effect on QTc length by the cross-combined Karasek’s categories of job control, job demand, and job support. Conclusions: Our study suggests subclinical effects of conditions associated with work-related stress on the autonomic regulation of cardiac function. Further research is warranted to elucidate the combined effect of work organization and lifestyle factors on autonomic cardiac function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

13 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mindfulness-Based IARA Model^® Proves Effective to Reduce Stress and Anxiety in Health Care Professionals. A Six-Month Follow-Up Study

by Massimiliano Barattucci, Anna Maria Padovan, Ermanno Vitale, Venerando Rapisarda, Tiziana Ramaci and Andrea De Giorgio

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(22), 4421; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16224421 - 12 Nov 2019

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5506

Abstract

Changes in the health care environment, together with specific work-related stressors and the consequences on workers’ health and performance, have led to the implementation of prevention strategies. Among the different approaches, those which are mindfulness-based have been institutionally recommended with an indication provided [...] Read more.

Changes in the health care environment, together with specific work-related stressors and the consequences on workers’ health and performance, have led to the implementation of prevention strategies. Among the different approaches, those which are mindfulness-based have been institutionally recommended with an indication provided as to their effectiveness in the management of stress. The aim of the present study was to analyze the efficacy of the mindfulness-based IARA Model^® (an Italian acronym translatable into meeting, compliance, responsibility, autonomy) in order to ameliorate perceived stress, anxiety and enhance emotional regulation among health care professionals (HCPs; i.e., doctors, nurses, and healthcare assistants). Four hundred and ninety-seven HCPs, 215 (57.2%) of which were women, were randomly assigned to a mindfulness-based training or control group and agreed to complete questionnaires on emotion regulation difficulties (DERS), anxiety, and perceived stress. Results showed that HCPs who attended the IARA training, compared to the control group, had better emotional regulation, anxiety and stress indices after 6 months from the end of the intervention. Furthermore, the results confirmed the positive relationship between emotional regulation, perceived stress and anxiety. The present study contributes to literature by extending the effectiveness of IARA in improving emotional regulation and well-being in non-clinical samples. Moreover, the study provides support for the idea that some specific emotional regulation processes can be implicated in perceived stress and anxiety. From the application point of view, companies should invest more in stress management intervention, monitoring and training, in order to develop worker skills, emotional self-awareness, and relational resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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19 pages, 792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work-Family Conflict in the European Union: The Impact of Organizational and Public Facilities

by Chantal Remery and Joop Schippers

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(22), 4419; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16224419 - 12 Nov 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2932

Abstract

Today, as an increasing share of women and men is involved in both paid tasks at work and unpaid care tasks for children and other relatives, more people are at risk of work-family conflict, which can be a major threat to well-being and [...] Read more.

Today, as an increasing share of women and men is involved in both paid tasks at work and unpaid care tasks for children and other relatives, more people are at risk of work-family conflict, which can be a major threat to well-being and mental, but also physical health. Both organizations and governments invest in arrangements that are meant to support individuals in finding a balance between work and family life. The twofold goal of our article was to establish the level of work-family conflict in the member states of the European Union by gender and to analyze to what extent different arrangements at the organizational level as well the public level help to reduce this. Using the European Working Conditions Survey supplemented with macro-data on work-family facilities and the economic and emancipation climate in a country, we performed multilevel analyses. Our findings show that the intensity of work-family conflict does not vary widely in EU28. In most countries, men experience less work-family conflict than women, although the difference is small. Caring for children and providing informal care increases perceived work-life conflict. The relatively small country differences in work-family conflict show that different combinations of national facilities and organizational arrangements together can have the same impact on individuals; apparently, there are several ways to realize the same goal of work-family conflict reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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9 pages, 299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effort-Reward Imbalance and Job Strain: A Composite Indicator Approach

by Liza Jachens and Jonathan Houdmont

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(21), 4169; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16214169 - 29 Oct 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4334

Abstract

The Job Demand-Control-Support (JDC-S) and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) models dominate psychosocial work environment research and practice, with their independent and collective contributions to employee health having been extensively demonstrated. Psychosocial risk assessment in the humanitarian aid sector is in its infancy, and there [...] Read more.

The Job Demand-Control-Support (JDC-S) and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) models dominate psychosocial work environment research and practice, with their independent and collective contributions to employee health having been extensively demonstrated. Psychosocial risk assessment in the humanitarian aid sector is in its infancy, and there is a need to identify appropriate psychosocial work environment models to inform approaches to assessment. The aim of this study is to examine the efficacy of these models separately and in combination to identify psychological distress in humanitarian aid workers. Cross-sectional survey data were obtained from 283 humanitarian aid workers. Logistic regression analyses investigated the separate and combined ability of the models to identify psychological distress. More than half of the participant sample reported psychological distress, and one third reported high ERI and high job strain. When tested separately, each model was associated with a significantly elevated likelihood of psychological distress. When tested in combination, the two models offered a superior estimation of the likelihood of psychological distress than achieved by one model in isolation. Psychosocial risk assessment in the humanitarian aid sector encompassing the characteristics of both these leading psychosocial work environment models captures the breadth of relevant generic psychosocial work characteristics. These initial findings require corroboration through longitudinal research involving sector-representative samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

15 pages, 1282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Career Development Support, Job Adaptation, and Withdrawal Intention of Expatriates: A Multilevel Analysis of Environmental Factors

by Hemin Song, Shuai Zhao, Wenwen Zhao and Hua Han

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(20), 3880; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16203880 - 13 Oct 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2875

Abstract

The present study aims to explore the impact of career development support on job adaptation and withdrawal intention, and the multilevel moderating role of host country environmental factors. Through the questionnaire survey, we collected 242 expatriates’ data of 25 countries from China’s multinational [...] Read more.

The present study aims to explore the impact of career development support on job adaptation and withdrawal intention, and the multilevel moderating role of host country environmental factors. Through the questionnaire survey, we collected 242 expatriates’ data of 25 countries from China’s multinational corporations. Based on the constructed multilevel analysis model, we find: (1) career development support has a significant impact on job adaptation and withdrawal intention of expatriates; (2) job adaptation plays a mediating role between career development support and withdrawal intention; and (3) host country environment plays the multilevel moderating role between career development support and job adaptation. Through the multilevel model of host country environment, this study explores the mechanism of how career development support affects job adaptation and withdrawal intention. The conclusions enhance the understanding of the adaptation of expatriates and have important theoretical and practical reference value to achieve successful expatriate in the context of host country environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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11 pages, 328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unequal Associations between Educational Attainment and Occupational Stress across Racial and Ethnic Groups

by Shervin Assari and Mohsen Bazargan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(19), 3539; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16193539 - 21 Sep 2019

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 5963

Abstract

Background: Although other mechanisms are also involved, at least one reason high educational attainment (EA) is associated with better health is lower employment stress in individuals with high EA. Minorities’ Diminished Returns, however, refer to the smaller protective health effects of EA [...] Read more.

Background: Although other mechanisms are also involved, at least one reason high educational attainment (EA) is associated with better health is lower employment stress in individuals with high EA. Minorities’ Diminished Returns, however, refer to the smaller protective health effects of EA for racial- and ethnic-minority individuals, particularly African Americans (AAs) and Hispanics, as compared to Whites. We are, however, not aware of many studies that have explored differential associations between EA and work-related stress across racial and ethnic groups. Aims: We aimed to compare racial and ethnic groups for the association between EA and occupational stress in a national sample of American adults. Methods: The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS 2015), a cross-sectional survey, included 15,726 employed adults. Educational attainment was the independent variable. Occupational stress was the outcome. Race and ethnicity were the moderators. Age, gender, number of jobs, and years in the job were the covariates. Results: Overall, higher EA was associated with lower levels of occupational stress. Race and ethnicity both interacted with EA, suggesting that the association between high EA and reduced occupational stress is systemically smaller for AAs and Hispanics than it is for Whites. Conclusions: In the United States, race and ethnicity limit the health gains that follow EA. While EA helps individuals avoid environmental risk factors, such as occupational stress, this is more valid for non-Hispanic Whites than AAs and Hispanics. The result is additional physical and mental health risks in highly educated AAs and Hispanics. The results are important, given racial and ethnic minorities are the largest growing section of the US population. We should not assume that EA is similarly protective across all racial and ethnic groups. In this context, EA may increase, rather than reduce, health disparities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

Review

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10 pages, 989 KiB

Open AccessReview

Influences of Blood Lactate Levels on Cognitive Domains and Physical Health during a Sports Stress. Brief Review

by Marinella Coco, Andrea Buscemi, Tiziana Ramaci, Matej Tusak, Donatella Di Corrado, Vincenzo Perciavalle, Grazia Maugeri, Valentina Perciavalle and Giuseppe Musumeci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(23), 9043; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17239043 - 04 Dec 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3376

Abstract

The present review aims to examine the effects of high blood lactate levels in healthy adult humans, for instance, after a period of exhaustive exercise, on the functioning of the cerebral cortex. In some of the examined studies, high blood lactate levels were [...] Read more.

The present review aims to examine the effects of high blood lactate levels in healthy adult humans, for instance, after a period of exhaustive exercise, on the functioning of the cerebral cortex. In some of the examined studies, high blood lactate levels were obtained not only through exhaustive exercise but also with an intravenous infusion of lactate while the subject was immobile. This allowed us to exclude the possibility that the observed post-exercise effects were nonspecific (e.g., cortical changes in temperature, acidity, etc.). We observed that, in both experimental conditions, high levels of blood lactate are associated with a worsening of important cognitive domains such as attention or working memory or stress, without gender differences. Moreover, in both experimental conditions, high levels of blood lactate are associated with an improvement of the primary motor area (M1) excitability. Outside the frontal lobe, the use of visual evoked potentials and somatosensory evoked potentials allowed us to observe, in the occipital and parietal lobe respectively, that high levels of blood lactate are associated with an amplitude’s increase and a latency’s reduction of the early components of the evoked responses. In conclusion, significant increases of blood lactate levels could exercise a double-action in the central nervous system (CNS), with a protecting role on primary cortical areas (such as M1, primary visual area, or primary somatosensory cortex), while reducing the efficiency of adjacent regions, such as the supplementary motor area (SMA) or prefrontal cortex. These observations are compatible with the possibility that lactate works in the brain not only as an energy substrate or an angiogenetic factor but also as a true neuromodulator, which can protect from stress. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms and effects of lactic acid products produced during an anaerobic exercise lactate, focusing on their action at the level of the central nervous system with particular attention to the primary motor, the somatosensory evoked potentials, and the occipital and parietal lobe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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10 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessReview

by Emanuele Cannizzaro, Tiziana Ramaci, Luigi Cirrincione and Fulvio Plescia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(20), 4031; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16204031 - 21 Oct 2019

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 3902

Abstract

Work-related stress is a growing health problem in modern society. The stress response is characterized by numerous neurochemicals, neuroendocrine and immune modifications that involve various neurological systems and circuits, and regulation of the gene expression of the different receptors. In this regard, a [...] Read more.

Work-related stress is a growing health problem in modern society. The stress response is characterized by numerous neurochemicals, neuroendocrine and immune modifications that involve various neurological systems and circuits, and regulation of the gene expression of the different receptors. In this regard, a lot of research has focused the attention on the role played by the environment in influencing gene expression, which in turn can control the stress response. In particular, genetic factors can moderate the sensitivities of specific types of neural cells or circuits mediating the imprinting of the environment on different biological systems. In this current review, we wish to analyze systematic reviews and recent experimental research on the physio-pathological mechanisms that underline stress-related responses. In particular, we analyze the relationship between genetic and epigenetic factors in the stress response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

13 pages, 555 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Perceived Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety and Stress amongst Staff in a Malaysian Public University: A Workers Survey

by Mohd Rizal Abdul Manaf, Muhammad Al-Amin Shaharuddin, Azmawati Mohammed Nawi, Noorlaili Mohd Tauhid, Hanita Othman, Mohd Rizam Abdul Rahman, Hanizah Mohd Yusoff, Nazarudin Safian, Pei Yuen Ng, Zahara Abdul Manaf, Nor Ba’yah Abdul Kadir, Kevina Yanasegaran, Siti Munirah Abdul Basir, Sowmya Ramakrishnappa, Mohd Izhar Ariff and Kurubaran Ganasegeran

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 11874; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182211874 - 12 Nov 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3275

Abstract

Mental health conditions are a major part of workers’ health that predisposes to poor self-motivation for sustaining productivity. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among staff in a Malaysian public university and its associated factors. A [...] Read more.

Mental health conditions are a major part of workers’ health that predisposes to poor self-motivation for sustaining productivity. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among staff in a Malaysian public university and its associated factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 459 staff from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) between April and June 2019. A questionnaire that consisted of items on socio-demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, employment description, lifestyle risk behaviors, personal medical history, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress was administered to participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted using SPSS version 22.0. The prevalence of perceived symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress among the respondents was 28.7%, 50.1%, and 14.8%, respectively. Over one-quarter (26.5%) of the participants presented symptoms of two or more mental disorders. Women, those aged less than 40 years old, and non-academic professionals were more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms, while those with medical conditions that required hospitalizations sustained anxiety symptoms. Perceived stress was more likely to be prevalent among staff with secondary education or less and smokers. Proactive support for staff needs to be offered in sustaining their emotional well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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